Who is responsible for the costs associated with complying with any modifications to the Bft system standards?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must operate all aspects of your Studio in strict conformance with the methods, standards and specifications of our System. Our methods, standards, and specifications will be communicated to you in writing through our confidential Learning Management System and other proprietary guidelines and writings that we prepare for your use in connection with the Studio and System. We may periodically change our System Standards, as we deem appropriate or necessary in our sole discretion, and you will be solely responsible for costs associated with complying with any modifications to the System.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 32–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is solely responsible for the costs associated with complying with any modifications to the Bft system standards. Bft may periodically change its System Standards as it deems appropriate, and these standards will be communicated in writing through the Learning Management System and other proprietary guidelines.
This means that if Bft decides to update its operational methods, required equipment, or any other aspect of the franchise system, the franchisee must bear the financial burden of implementing those changes. This could involve purchasing new equipment, renovating the studio, retraining staff, or any other expense necessary to meet the updated standards.
For a prospective franchisee, this highlights the importance of budgeting for potential future costs related to system updates. It also underscores the need to carefully review the franchise agreement and understand the scope of potential changes and associated expenses. Franchisees should inquire about the frequency and magnitude of past system changes to better anticipate future costs. This is a fairly standard clause in franchise agreements, as franchisors need the flexibility to evolve their systems, but it places a financial risk on the franchisee.